The provided source material describes a method by which PlayStation Plus subscribers can obtain a permanent, non-expiring license for the video game Stardew Valley on PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, and PlayStation 3 platforms. This process relies on the "cross-buy" feature available on older Sony hardware, effectively allowing users to retain the game even after their subscription lapses. The game is currently part of the PlayStation Plus monthly lineup for September 2025, alongside titles such as Psychonauts 2 and Viewfinder.
According to the documentation, Stardew Valley is a farming and life simulation video game developed by ConcernedApe. It was first released in 2016 and is widely regarded for popularizing the "cozy game" genre. Critical reception has been favorable, with the game receiving an average score of 89 on Metacritic based on 30 critic reviews.
Understanding the PlayStation Plus Offer
PlayStation Plus is a subscription service that provides users with access to a selection of games each month. Typically, games offered through this service are tied to the active subscription period; if the subscription expires, access to the games is lost. However, the source material indicates an exception exists for Stardew Valley due to specific cross-platform entitlements.
The September 2025 lineup includes Stardew Valley (PS4), Psychonauts 2 (PS4), and Viewfinder (PS4, PS5). These games became available to claim starting September 2, 2025. Users generally have until October 6, 2025, to add these titles to their libraries. While these games are playable on PS5 or PS4, the specific mechanics regarding permanent ownership are unique to the Stardew Valley title in this context.
The Cross-Buy Loophole
The core of the permanent ownership method lies in the cross-buy functionality, a feature that grants users access to a game across multiple PlayStation platforms (such as PS4 and PS Vita) with a single purchase or claim. While the primary offer requires a PlayStation Plus subscription to claim the PS4 version, the resulting entitlement extends to the PS Vita or PS3 versions without the same subscription restrictions.
The Process
To secure a permanent copy of Stardew Valley, users must follow a specific sequence of actions:
- Claim the PS4 Version: The user must first have an active PlayStation Plus subscription. They must locate and claim the PS4 version of Stardew Valley from the PlayStation Store. This is typically found within the monthly free games section for subscribers.
- Search for the Vita/PS3 Version: After successfully claiming the PS4 version, the user should search for Stardew Valley on the PS Vita webstore, the PS3 store, or via the PS App.
- Acquire via Cross-Buy: Due to the cross-buy association established by the PS4 claim, the PS Vita or PS3 version should appear as free (priced at $0.00). The user can then "purchase" (add to cart and complete the transaction at no cost) this version.
The Result
Once the PS Vita or PS3 version is claimed, it becomes a permanent part of the user's library. Unlike the PS4 version, which remains tied to the active PS Plus subscription, the Vita/PS3 license is not restricted by subscription status. This means the user retains access to the game indefinitely, even if their PlayStation Plus subscription expires.
This loophole was notably highlighted by content creator Wario64 and confirmed by various user reports. The documentation clarifies that while the PS4 version requires the subscription to remain playable, the Vita/PS3 versions obtained via this method do not carry a time restriction.
Platform Specifics and Limitations
PlayStation Vita and PlayStation 3
The cross-buy entitlement is specifically valid for the PlayStation Vita and PlayStation 3 platforms. The Vita version was released on May 22, 2018, following the initial PS4 release. It offers a portable way to play the game, though it lacks the multiplayer functionality (version 1.3 update) available on other platforms. The documentation suggests that the Vita version is a viable option for securing permanent ownership due to the lack of subscription checks on these older systems.
PlayStation 4
The standard PlayStation Plus offer for Stardew Valley on PS4 is a temporary license. If a user claims the game solely on the PS4 without utilizing the cross-buy method, they will lose access to the game should their subscription lapse. The "trick" relies on triggering the permanent license through the older hardware entitlement.
Game Details and Context
Stardew Valley is a farming simulation game that involves farming, crafting, and social elements. It has been available on various platforms including PC, Xbox One, and Nintendo Switch. In the context of the PlayStation Plus offer, the game is highlighted as a major draw for the September 2025 lineup.
Additionally, the source material mentions that the creator, Eric "ConcernedApe" Barone, is developing a major update (version 1.7) for Stardew Valley, confirming continued support for the game despite its approaching ten-year anniversary.
Summary of Availability
- Game: Stardew Valley
- Current Offer: Free for PlayStation Plus subscribers (September 2025).
- Permanent Ownership Method: Claim PS4 version via PS Plus, then claim PS Vita or PS3 version via cross-buy.
- Eligibility: Active PlayStation Plus subscription required for the initial claim; expired subscription does not affect the Vita/PS3 license.
- Source Reliability: Information is derived from reports by Wario64 and various gaming news outlets, referencing user confirmations of the license behavior.
Conclusion
The provided source material outlines a specific procedural method for obtaining a permanent copy of Stardew Valley through the PlayStation Plus subscription service. By leveraging the cross-buy feature available on PlayStation Vita and PlayStation 3, users can bypass the standard time-limited nature of PS Plus games. This allows for indefinite ownership of the game, distinct from the temporary access provided to the PS4 version alone. This opportunity is available to users who maintain an active subscription during the claim period of September 2025.